Copper-catalyzed photoredox reaction of aldehydes with O-benzoyl hydroxylamines for the formation of amides†

Amides are one of the most important functional groups since they are the backbones of essential biomolecules such as peptides, proteins, and nucleic acids and are also found in pharmaceuticals, polymers, and bioactive compounds. In this study, we developed a novel visible-light-induced oxidative amidation of aldehydes catalyzed by copper(II) bromide. In particular, reactions of aldehydes with O-benzoyl hydroxylamines were conducted in the presence of TBHP as an oxidant and CuBr₂ as a catalyst at room temperature under the irradiation of visible light. Using the process, a wide scope of amides was successfully prepared in high yields, indicating a promising approach to synthesize amides under mild conditions.